Celie 1997-2012

Yesterday we had to put our sweet dog Celie to sleep.  She had 15 wonderful years - 2 countries, 5 houses, 1 marriage, and 2 kids.

In 1997 when I was a single teacher, I bought a house.  After a few nights with creaky sounds, I decided I needed a dog.  I went to the Houston SPCA and picked out a completely scared, 6 month old, lab (husky?) mutt.  She was afraid of everything, probably abused in those first few months.  I named her Celie, after the character in the Color Purple (abused but strong in the end).

Celie turned out to be a faithful companion.  She was so loyal, following me room-to-room even when it was so hard for her to move.  She had a fierce bark, and scared away many door-to-door salesmen.  She was gentle, yet she loved to run when she was younger.

Celie took awhile to warm up to Michael, as she did with most men.  She was always calm with the kids, and was just fine with taking a back seat to them.  I tried to find pictures of her from those busy years of 2 babies under 2 and really couldn't find even ONE!

Since 2005, Celie had a constant companion in our second dog Rosie.  She was quite happy with her role as "alpha" dog and always let Rosie know when she'd had enough.  Last night was the first night Rosie had ever spent without Celie, but she seemed to be ok.

I was so happy and grateful that Celie was able to make the move to the UK with us.  Many people were surprised that a 14 year old dog could make such a big flight, but she came through like a champ.  I think this was her little gift to me, since I'm not sure I could have moved if I had to leave her behind.

She loved the UK weather, with the cool mornings and mild temperatures.  As the year went by, she lost her hearing and struggled with strength and control in her back legs.  It was hard to watch her trying to lay down and get comfortable.

On Friday, she couldn't get up or lay down and all 4 legs seemed to be losing strength.  She looked tired and miserable and I knew it was time.  She laid on her bed all day, barely lifting her head.  The vet was so kind and calm, and that made the whole process a little easier.  Still one of the hardest things I've done.

We will miss her so much!  Here are some pictures to remember her.

1998 Celie in front of our little house

1999

With my orange cat Abby who was her buddy until 2000

Thanksgiving in Crockett 2000

Summer 2000

Back when it was just the 3 of us

Celie always laid with her front paws crossed like a lady

Celie had a little black mustache that made us laugh

Christmas 2001

Sneaking up on the couch for a nap

2008 Best buddies

Christmas 2009

2010 Celie loved to lay in the sun

On the day she arrived in the UK in 2011.  This was her favorite place to be, looking out on the street.

Napping with her best buddy

2012 Getting older, but still my sweet Celie